Eight people have been convicted on charges of armed robbery in an organized gang, criminal association, and receiving stolen goods following the 2008 jewellery heist at a Paris Harry Winston store. According to defense lawyer Philippe Stepniewski, sentences ranged from nine months to 15 years in prison. The alleged ringleader of the heist, Douadi Yahiaoui, received the heaviest penalty.
Stepniewski’s client, Mouloud Djennad, was working as a security guard at the store and functioned as an inside accessory who told the thieves about the amount of jewellery and watches carried by the store. Djennad has been sentenced to two years in prison.
During the 2008 heist, three gunmen dressed in women’s wigs and clothing stole about $92 million in jewellery and watches in a span of 20 minutes.
The Harry Winston boutique is located on Avenue Montaigne and is frequently visited by wealthy international clients, including royalty and celebrities. CJ
Author: Canadian Jeweller Magazine Staff
Canadian Jeweller Magazine Staff is the shared byline for reporting filed by the magazine's editorial desk. Founded in 1879, Canadian Jeweller is the longest running jewellery business publication in Canada, covering market reporting, retail strategy, watches, diamonds, coloured gemstones and the commerce of the Canadian jewellery trade. Work published under this byline is edited and verified by the Canadian Jeweller editorial team in Toronto.
